Umbrella tree (schefflera)
Brassaia actinophylla (Araliaceae)
Also called Schefflera, Australian Ivy Palm, Octopus Tree, Starleaf.
Cats and dogs
Toxic to cats and dogs
What makes it toxic: Terpenoids, saponins, insoluble oxalates.
Signs to watch for: While this plant does contain potentially toxic substances, the most common effects seen are mild vomiting and diarrhea.
Source: ASPCA entry "Umbrella Tree", checked October 3, 2026.
Light
- Low light 3+ mol
- Medium light 6+ mol Copes
- Bright indirect 10+ mol Best
- Direct sun 12+ mol
Umbrella tree likes bright, indirect light near an east, west or south window. NC State says it does well in a bright, sunny spot but should be shielded from hot afternoon sun.
Direct sun: a little gentle morning sun is fine.
On our scale it grows well from about 10 mol/m²/day and holds on down to roughly 1.1 (how these numbers are set).
Care
Care level: Moderate. Water: Water thoroughly, let the soil dry moderately between waterings, and water less in fall and winter.
It is prone to spider mites in warm, dry rooms; raising humidity helps.
Pet-safe plants for similar light
- African violet bright indirect light
- Boston fern bright indirect light
- Cape primrose (Streptocarpus) bright indirect light
- Christmas cactus bright indirect light
- Earth star (Cryptanthus) bright indirect light
- Friendship plant (Pilea involucrata) bright indirect light
Sources
- Toxicity: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, "Umbrella Tree"
- Light and care: Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, "How do I care for an umbrella tree?"
- Light and care: NC State Extension, "Heptapleurum actinophyllum (Umbrella Tree)"
- Light and care: Illinois Extension, "Lighting | Houseplants"